The Engraver Joseph Tourny (1857, Met-Objekt 501)
Original title: The Engraver Joseph Tourny
kurzbeschreibung
In 1857 Edgar Degas made an etching of the engraver Joseph Tourny, a portrait that exists in only one state. The present impression is the fourth printing on laid paper, with corrosion partly cleaned and additional scratches. Tourny appears in a pensive pose, wearing a hooded cap.
Description
Tourny sits on a bench or table, arms crossed, his gaze turned slightly to the left. His expression is thoughtful. Behind him, a blurred vertical form suggests a tree. At the lower edge of the image, two indistinct figures can be made out, perhaps a woman and a child. The arrangement pushes the man forward, while the light falls evenly.
Context
This etching dates from 1857, when Degas was in Italy and engaged with printmaking. Joseph Tourny was an engraver connected with Degas. At this time Degas was influenced by the Italian Renaissance and by etching technique. The sheet belongs to the artist's early graphic works.
Impact
A quiet, introspective mood arises from the sitter's reflective posture. Delicate lines and the monochrome range of grays create a subtle, restrained aesthetic. The blurring in the background draws attention to the man's presence.
Technique
Etched lines, fine and parallel, define the image. The etching exists in a single state and was printed on laid paper. On the plate are traces of corrosion, partially cleaned, along with additional scratches that characterize the fourth printing.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)